- Published:
- Monday 5 October 2015
The Andrews Labor Government has welcomed the announcement of a $1.3 billion Commonwealth contract to build the next generation of military vehicles in Bendigo, and has renewed calls for the Federal Government to save naval shipbuilding jobs at Williamstown.
The contract to build 1,100 Hawkei military vehicles and 1,000 trailers is expected to create 60 new jobs and secure hundreds of existing jobs at the Bendigo manufacturing facility and at supply chain businesses across Victoria.
The contract demonstrates the strength of Victoria’s defence industry, which contributes up to $8 billion to the state’s economy. It includes more than 300 businesses and directly employs approximately 7,000 people who manufacture equipment and provide services for defence activities.
The Labor Government calls on the Federal Government to support Victoria’s defence manufacturing jobs and workers by fast tracking a selective tender to BAE Systems to build offshore patrol vessels at the Williamstown shipyards.
By placing an order, the Federal Government can save the jobs of around 650 highly skilled Victorian workers.
The defence industry is one of the sectors of extraordinary potential growth that the Labor Government is supporting through the $200 million Future Industries Fund. This fund will help transition the Victorian economy through targeted investment to grow Victorian industries and create more jobs.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry, Lily D’Ambrosio
“This contract is a vote of confidence in Victoria’s defence manufacturing industry that will boost jobs and benefit local businesses across the supply chain.”
“We call on the Turnbull Government to support Victoria’s defence manufacturing workers, and save more than 600 jobs, by placing an order to build offshore patrol boats at the Williamstown shipyards.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo East, Minister Jacinta Allan
"This announcement is great news for manufacturing, jobs and the local economy here in Bendigo."
"I congratulate Lisa Chesters for her hard work in bringing this contract to Bendigo."